Guest Column: Why educators are reluctant to speak out

6:44 PM,
Apr. 24, 2013

Written by

Joseph Lock
Guest Columnist

This article seeks to answer the question asked by Nancy Mounce on April 17. She asks why educators don't speak out when bad decisions are being made. There is a psychological phenomenon called "groupthink." It happens within a group when the desire for conformity or harmony results in incorrect decision-making. Group members try to minimize conflict and reach a consensus decision without critical evaluation of other ideas and by isolating themselves from outside influences. Loyalty to the group requires individuals to avoid raising alternative solutions or disagreeing.